Become an Independent IT Consultant in 5 Steps
Become an Independent IT Consultant in 5 Steps
So you have decided to take the plunge and work for yourself. Before going any further, it is essential to build your new career on a strong foundation. Below you will find 5 guidelines to help you:
1. Project clarity
You first need to make sure you have a concrete project in place. The freelancing community is growing rapidly so it is crucial that your proposal stands out. In order to achieve this, you need to ask yourself the following questions:
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What is your area of expertise?
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What will your fee be?
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How do you wish to work: contract or flat rate?
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When are you available to start work?
Once you are able to answer those questions, you can move to the next stage.
2. Share your project with your network
This is when you need to use your network. It is your main resource to help you find your first contract. Don’t hesitate to mention your new freelance project to friends, former colleagues, etc.
You will need to develop your network. Various tools are at your disposal, such as LinkedIn, to enable you to spread the word but also to reach a bigger audience. Working for yourself is daunting but be bold! Take the initiative, talk to people you don’t know and ask around!
3. Use specialised platforms
Depending on your level of expertise, you can register with several platforms, such as freelance-info.fr, XXE, Codeur.com, Crème de la Crème, MALT, etc., to help you find new clients. Make sure to introduce yourself well with an attractive profile clearly detailing your expertise and experience.
4. Choose your status / umbrella company
There are several options open to you: create your own business or use the services of an umbrella company.
The umbrella company will help you manage the administrative side of things and enable you to contact new clients through its own network. The number of umbrella companies is ever growing, so it is important to choose the right one for you. Check that you will get as much income from your invoices as you can.
Make sure that you are more than just a number to them and look for direct contact details, meet your advisors, and ensure you get a tailor-made service.
You can contact us directly if you wish to receive a comparison between the various statuses and their benefits, simply click here.
5. Choose your contract
It is not easy to know in advance if you have found the right client and, above all, the right contract. We recommend choosing a long-term contract and one that will enable you to find your feet as an independent contractor while strengthening your skills. It will also give you a great reference for future projects.
Don’t wait any longer, just go for it!
Hightekers
Contact us on +33 1 84 20 78 99
email: contact.uk@hightekers.com